The Rolex Day-Date is one of the most iconic and beautiful watches in the Rolex catalog. The Rolex Day-Date earned the nickname "President" after it was rumored President Dwight Eisenhower wore one, but Eisenhower actually wore a Rolex 18K yellow gold Oyster-Perpetual Datejust which Rolex gifted to him in 1953. However, the nickname "President" is quite fitting for the Day-Date as Presidents Kennedy, Johnson, Ford, Reagan, Nixon, and Roosevelt, all wore the Rolex Day-Date. Apart from its executive affiliation, the Day-Date is a symbol of status and luxury, only produced in highly refined precious metals including 18K yellow, white, and rose gold and also platinum, featuring both the day and date complications within the movement.

This 1973 Rolex Day-Date ref. 1803 retains its original and sought-after satin taupe, "Havana" minute track dial, which features a beautiful "ghost" effect with the dial. The "Ghost" dial phenomenon is one of the most unique and celebrated dial variants that exist within the Rolex dress models. Depending on the lighting conditions, the tonal printing of the text can disappear into the dial completely or be vividly contrasted against the dial, hence the "ghost" nickname. These dials can be seen in several dial configurations though the most common are grey and taupe dials from the plastic crystal era of Rolex 34mm and 36mm dress models.

CASE & BRACELET

The excellent 18K yellow gold case retains thick and even lugs that show light elements of gentle use and minimal evidence of previous polishing. The 18K yellow gold flute bezel has been previously light polishing and is in wonderful overall condition with minor wear present. The watch comes supplied on a 2pc handmade leather strap with a Rolex gold plaque tang buckle.

DIAL & HANDS

The charming and uncommon satin Havana "pie-pan" minute track dial is in great vintage condition with subtle, yet honest elements of age and no obscene damage.  The dial is a pale taupe coloration that blends with the cream-colored text at certain angles which creates the sought-after ghost effect. Under UV light inspection the tritium lume plots exhibit degradation throughout though slight remnants of each plot remain, however, this has little effect on the overall aesthetic of the watch. The original yellow gold hands feature a white enamel inlay and are in great vintage condition. The metallic gold date wheel is original with open 6's and 9's.

ACCESSORIES 

None. The watch is functioning and keeping time perfectly, previous service history is unknown.